Joseph Drouhin : Montrachet Grand cru "Marquis de Laguiche" 2017

An exceptional, delicate and aromatic Chardonnay from Domaine Joseph Drouhin

The estate
For 4 generations, Domaine Joseph Drouhin has been an essential reference among the great wines of Burgundy.

Founded in 1880 by Joseph Drouhin at the age of 22, the estate has grown over the years to its current size of 80 hectares spread across renowned appellations (Beaune, Bonnes-Mares, Chassagne-Montrachet, Clos Vougeot, Corton-Charlemagne, Grands-Echezeaux, Pouilly-Fuissé, etc.).
As early as 1957, this family of pioneers advocated respect for the terroir and the environment, both in vineyard management and in the crafting of its great wines.
Authentically expressing the mosaic and richness of Burgundy's terroirs, Domaine Joseph Drouhin's red and white wines are renowned for their elegance, intense fruity aromas, and delicious complexity.

The vineyard
The Montrachet Grand Cru Marquis de Laguiche 2017 from Domaine Joseph Drouhin comes from a 2.06-hectare plot, the largest in this Grand Cru.
Owned by the Laguiche family since 1776, this plot has been cultivated by Maison Joseph Drouhin since 1947.
Its soil explains the name of the appellation. Indeed, the term "rachet" refers to poor soil. The soil of this plot, reddish-brown in color, is scattered with smooth, white limestone pebbles.
A yield of 48 hl/hectare allows the nuances and character of each terroir to be revealed.

The vintage
The fall and winter of 2017–2018 were marked by above-average rainfall, replenishing groundwater levels. The coolness and lack of sunlight in March slowed the vine's growth cycle.
Milder conditions from mid-April onward accelerated vegetative growth. The estate's teams remained vigilant, as the combination of frequent rain and mild temperatures could lead to mildew.

Favorable summer conditions promoted good ripening of the vines, which, drawing on the spring's water reserves, did not suffer from drought. Uneven rainfall between sectors resulted in heterogeneous véraison across the vineyard. Rain in early September, combined with the return of light morning dew, unlocked ripening. The harvest was consistent, with good yields. The vineyard was healthy and the grapes were of high quality.

Winemaking and aging
Harvested and sorted by hand, the grapes undergo a first selection at harvest and a second on the sorting table.

Pressing is very slow to preserve the fruit's integrity. The last-press juices are not used in the making of this wine.
After settling, the wine is aged for 15 to 18 months in French oak barrels (25% of which are new).

Blend
The Montrachet Grand Cru Marquis de Laguiche 2017 from Domaine Joseph Drouhin is 100% Chardonnay.

Tasting
Appearance

The color is a brilliant golden hue.
Nose

Aromatic, the nose blends floral fragrances (lily of the valley, vine blossom, peach blossom) with notes of exotic fruit, honey, and toasted almonds, evolving toward rare woody notes.
Palate


The palate is light and beautifully harmonious. Round, structured, and remarkably persistent, it highlights this wine's great finesse.

Serving
For optimal tasting, serve at 14-15°C.

Cellaring potential
Ready to enjoy today, the Montrachet Grand Cru Marquis de Laguiche 2017 from Domaine Joseph Drouhin can be cellared until 2057 to fully express its rich aromatic potential.